YORKSHIRE Cancer Research has been announced as the official charity for this year’s Tour de Yorkshire.

The regional charity, which funds lifesaving research and services throughout the county, was awarded the prestigious title after being chosen from a long list of worthy causes.

As preparations get underway for the four-day cycling event, communities across the region are being urged to come together and help ‘shift gears on cancer’.

There will be a wide range of volunteering and fundraising opportunities available to help raise funds and awareness of Yorkshire Cancer Research’s work.

As part of the charity’s activity, people with a personal experience of cancer are being offered a unique opportunity to cycle the final kilometre of the route at the four finish locations of Redcar, Leyburn, Huddersfield and Leeds.

The final kilometre of all bike races is marked by a red flag known as the ‘Flamme Rouge’

Dr Kathryn Scott, chief executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: “The Tour de Yorkshire brilliantly showcases the community spirit we’re so proud of in our county.

"This distinctive spirit is the inspiration behind the ‘Flamme Rouge’ ride and our ambition to celebrate life with and after cancer. It’s also a great way to promote the benefits of exercise after a diagnosis of cancer. We’re honoured to be part of this incredible annual spectacle." The race runs from April 30 to May 3.